I am very interested in the new ford focus. But all the talk about the transmission grinding itself up has got me worried. How do you guys feel the new focus will last long term? Should I wait until next years model? How much would a new clutch cost?

I only have 350 miles on my 2013, so obviously I can't comment on reliability yet. I will say the transmission is interesting. You definitely have to change your expectations some from a regular automatic. It definitely feels like a manual. If you were in the passenger seat and closed your eyes, you would think the driver was working a manual transmission - complete with a few studders at very low power and some engine braking at times when you get off the gas (at least in sport mode). Having said that, I don't find it unpleasant or bothersome, just different from what we have become used to over the last 30 years.

__________________
MK3 Focus = a lot of good ideas rather poorly executed.

that all happened when mine was new it takes a while for the clutches to break in. but right now I have 3k miles on mine and it isn't much different from a regular automatic. As for reliability only time well tell I don't think anyone really has a ton of miles on a mk3 yet.

I am very interested in the new ford focus. But all the talk about the transmission grinding itself up has got me worried. How do you guys feel the new focus will last long term? Should I wait until next years model? How much would a new clutch cost?

I really like the luxury appeal of the car and how it looks.

Thank you,

We have two with about 2000 miles each. They are driving well and we are not concerned about reliability. They definitely improve with break-in and mileage. Terrific design, quality and dynamics. And good value.

I had my 2013 Titanium for a month now. 2200 miles later I am pleased. No issues other than a slightly buggy MFT. But that'll eventually get fixed. The new TSB is out to fix it. So I shall give that a try. But really I get hit by MFT going stupid like once every 1-2 weeks so not bad

Will have had mine for two weeks on Sunday. almost 500 miles in and must say that I have had no issues. The only issues is trying to use voice commands when trying to call someone. The auto transmission takes some getting use to, but I am getting accustomed to it. I have been busy working long hours and 6 days a week so I am awaiting a break so I can get more familiar with all the buttons and layout.

I've got 27,000 miles on my 2012 SE, and can't think of any problems I've had--certainly nothing that falls into the "reliability" category. It's been a pleasure to own and drive so far. One caveat--mine is a 5-speed so I don't know about the auto transmission. But really, why would you NOT buy the manual anyway?

Register Now

In order to be able to post messages on the Ford Focus Forum, Ford Focus ST Forum, Ford Focus RS Forum forums, you must first register.
Please enter your desired user name, your email address and other required details in the form below.

User Name:

Password

Please enter a password for your user account. Note that passwords are case-sensitive.

Password:

Confirm Password:

Email Address

Please enter a valid email address for yourself.

Email Address:

Log-in

User Name

Remember Me?

Password

Human Verification

In order to verify that you are a human and not a spam bot, please enter the answer into the following box below based on the instructions contained in the graphic.

Focus Fanatics Ford Focus Forum offers many fun ways for you to engage with other Ford Focus Owners from across the world. Whether it be about the aftermarket performance modifications, technical how-to's, European tuned suspension or awesome fuel economy similar to the Audi S3, Ford Fusion and Acura TLX. You can find all Ford Focus and Focus ST related information here. Join our Ford Focus discussion forums and chat with local Focus enthusiasts in your area. Challenger Hellcat - Charger Hellcat